Images of accused gunman Dezi Freeman being arrested
Share this @internewscast.com

Warning: This story contains images and details that some readers may find distressing.

Police say “disappointing” images showing the moments before two officers were shot dead came from a member of accused gunman Dezi Freeman’s family.

Freeman is accused of fatally shooting officers Neal Thompson, 59, and Vadim De Waart-Hottart, 34, while also wounding a third officer during an ambush at his property in Porepunkah, located in Victoria’s high country on August 26.

Previously unseen vision obtained by Daily Mail Australia shows Freeman, his wife Amalia and their two-year-old son barricading themselves on a bus as police tried to execute a warrant.
Images of accused gunman Dezi Freeman being arrested
These images show the moments before Dezi Freeman allegedly killed two officers. (Daily Mail Australia)

Freeman reportedly called officers “psychopaths” and “Nazis” and accused them of trespassing.

In the vision, it has been reported he also told the officers to “leave us alone” several times.

His wife was also reportedly heard asking police not to force entry into the bus.

Two loud noises believed to be gunshots then rang out.

The footage ended as officers are seen running for cover.

Victoria Police Detective Superintendent Jason Kelly told media today the images were taken by a member of Freeman’s family.

“That footage is not Victoria Police footage, is it not body-worn, it is by a member of the family of Desmond Freeman,” Kelly said.

“From a Victoria Police point of view, it is both distressing and disappointing

“I can only imagine the impact that has had on the family of Neal and Vadim and the colleagues that were present.”

Images of accused gunman Dezi Freeman being arrested
Freeman reportedly called officers “psychopaths”. (Daily Mail Australia)
Images of accused gunman Dezi Freeman being arrested
Two loud noises believed to be gunshots then rang out. (Daily Mail Australia)

Reward boosts tips from the public

The vision from August 26 has emerged as the manhunt for Freeman enters its 16th day.

Police have confirmed there has been no official sighting of the accused gunman during this time.

Superintendent Craig Darlow today said police have been given 200 tips since the reward was announced.

“We are exploring a number of matters, out of 1000 tips, a number are sightings, but not confirmed,” Darlow said.

Detective Inspector Dean Thomas stated over the weekend that he remains open to all possibilities regarding Freeman’s location and mentioned that the reward is “just another avenue” in the ongoing search.

Police have received over 1000 tips from the public so far.

Victoria Police Jason Kelly
Victoria Police Detective Superintendant Jason Kelly. (9News)

Police searching caves and mineshafts for Freeman

The 16-day search for the accused gunman has involved mineshafts, caves, huts and properties.

Police said there have been over 4000 shifts and 2000 members of Victoria Police and other crews have taken part in the manhunt so far.

Of the theories about where Freeman is and if he is still alive, Darlow said “everything is on the table”.

He further explained, “We’re considering all scenarios, including the possibility that he may have taken his own life, might be hiding out in the hills, or could have escaped; we’re not excluding any options at the moment.”

“We will leave no stone unturned, he’s killed two of our members and shot a third.”

Kelly said police are prepared to continue searching for Freeman for “as long as it takes”.

”History sggests these types of operations take significant time,” he said.

“We need to be present, and we need to continue the search for him.”

Vadim De Waart-Hottart’s family visit Porepunkah

The family of slain officer Vadim De Waart-Hottart, 34, today arrived in Porepunkah for the first time since the shooting.

Kelly mentioned that his parents visited the Bright Police Station, where Waart-Hottart had been temporarily assigned, and had discussions with some of their son’s fellow officers.

“The attendance today was a real boost, if you like,” he said.

“It’s been a week of emotion for Victoria Police but I believe Vaidm’s parents’ attendance will hopefully assist them.

“It’s been a very distressing time for them, very emotional.”

Readers seeking support can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or beyond blue on 1300 22 4636.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Trump threatens to wipe out critical Iranian island if deal isn't reached 'shortly'

Trump Issues Ultimatum: Iranian Island’s Fate Hinges on Swift Deal Resolution

US President Donald Trump has threatened widespread destruction of Iran‘s energy resources…
Aerial still of the property where Dezi Freeman was shot, March 30, 2026.

Unveiling the Details: How the Police Operation Led to the Fatal Shooting of Dezi Freeman

It seemed straight out of a dystopian film. Dezi Freeman, who had…

Prime Minister Announces Fuel Excise Cuts in New National Energy Strategy

In Brief The fuel excise will be halved for three months. The…
Apple almost went broke – now it's celebrating 50 years

Apple Overcomes Financial Struggles to Celebrate 50 Years of Innovation

Apple’s journey from the brink of collapse to becoming one of the…
Millions of Aussies to suffer further after major bank's fresh rates warning

Major Bank’s New Rate Warning Signals Potential Challenges for Millions of Australians

Interest rates could peak at an 18-year high in a matter of…
Finder has revealed 12 per cent of Australians felt the regret when faced with a minor health matter such as a dental visit.

One-in-Five Australians Regret This Common Financial Blunder: Survey Insights

One-in-five Australians regret not taking out private health insurance after being stung…
Dezi Freeman's friend says he thought fugitive had died seven months ago

Shock Revelation: Fugitive Dezi Freeman Was Presumed Dead by Friends Seven Months Prior

One of Dezi Freeman’s close friends says he believed the fugitive was…
Cash supporters are calling on the federal government to expand the cash mandate.

New Cash Mandate Targets Major Retailers: Bunnings and McDonald’s to Accept Physical Currency

Pro-cash advocates are calling on the federal government to expand the cash…

Netanyahu Directs Israeli Forces to Intensify Operations in Southern Lebanon

IN BRIEF Last week, Israel said it would seize southern Lebanon as…
Study confirms parents' worst fears: vaping causes cancer

Groundbreaking Study Reveals Alarming Link Between Vaping and Cancer: A Wake-Up Call for Parents

Nicotine vapes and e-cigarettes have been linked to deadly cancers, according to…

Unmasking the Beneficiaries: How Your Outrage Fuels Profit in the Digital Age

SBS respectfully recognizes the traditional custodians of the lands across Australia. I…
An aerial image of the Walwa property where Dezi Freeman was reportedly located this morning.

Son of Convicted Cop Killer Condemns ‘Disgusting’ Remarks About His Father

A man identifying himself as Dezi’s oldest son, Koah, expressed anger on…